our new years eve

wow - whtat a fantastic new years eve (and our 10th anniversary!)

the surgeon (Pablo) who organised my placements here in argentina, invited us to the family farm for an asado (argentine style bbq). what a fantastic insight into argentine family life it turned out to be.

the farm was only about 50km north of the city, but feels very peaceful, up a long dirt road, passing cows and horses. the farm used to be used for training polo horses, but now it's just a retreat.

It was really interesting to see how they cook the (whole) lamb, they use charcoal and just spread out a few coals under the meat and cook it very slowly ( over 3 hours), in the meantime much wine, beer, and champagne flowed. conversation was interesting,we sat on the veranda for hours talking - including to some people from Belgium also stayed the night, in the beautifully decorated farm house.

The hospitality was fantastic, we're very greatful to Pablo and his family for taking us in, and making us so welcome.

The countryside outside of Buenos Aires was strangely familiar - it's quite dry, has massive eucalyptus trees, and all the familiar smells of cows and horses. Sitting outside Dad would feel very much at home here.